If you’re researching ways to get ahead of the SEO curve for 2020, you’re not alone.
Google’s algorithm is constantly evolving and it’s a neverending contest to rank first. Luckily, there are several SEO tricks and strategies already showing promise and set to dominate in the new year.
SEO Tricks to Hack Your Rankings in 2020
There’s no one method alone that’ll land your site in the #1 ranking spot. However, there are several approaches that, when combined, will boost your ratings.
Voice Search Optimization
Did you know 55% of teens and 41% of adults perform at least one voice search a day? Or that 20% of all searches on mobile devices are voice searches?
It’s on the rise in popularity. Why wouldn’t you seek to optimize for this?
Most voice searches are in the form of a question. So, when a user says “Hey Google” and asks their question, the voice assistant is most likely to pick a page containing the question and the answer to it.
Put simply, include the question and then answer it within your content.
Position Zero
Otherwise known as the featured snippet, Google now offers a preview of a post to a voice search query. This position is important because, in voice search, position zero is the only result given to the user.
Here are 3 best practices to optimize your site for position zero:
1. Give information that answers every relevant question
The more information and context given for your business, the better.
Recently, Google released an algorithmic updated called Google BERT. It helps Google to understand the context behind the content. The digital assistant looks at context and then offers the best choice to its user.
2. Build a lead with the featured snippet
To get a spot as a featured snippet, give complete but short answers that lead people to your business. These answers are called “snippet bait” and should range between 40-60 words.
3. Structure your data
Structured posts are essential. To improve your odds for position zero, make use of bullet-point lists, HTML tables, and images.
Pesky SEO Myths to Ignore
Since Google likes to be secretive about its algorithm, it’s only normal myths would pop up. It leaves a lot of room for speculation.
1. Keyword stuffing helps your page rank higher.
This myth is born from old SEO practices. Years ago, yes, this tactic worked. Google has since grown smarter and now takes an in-depth look at the intent behind the content.
2. External links send potential customers away.
This myth came from the fact that blogs want a good bounce rate, not lose people because of external linking.
Including an external link as a cited reference builds trustworthiness. The fact is, outbound links don’t affect your site’s ranking and sources should always be cited.
3. SEO is a one-time deal and then you’re done.
This couldn’t be further from the truth. A solid SEO strategy has no end. It’s an ongoing effort.
You should always be building backlinks, putting out evergreen content, growing your authority, optimizing your site’s compatibility with mobile users, and so much more. If you don’t have the know-how, hire a reputable search engine optimization company to assist your business.
Stay Ahead of the SEO Curve
SEO is forever evolving and so your business must as well.
As the algorithm for page ranking changes, there will be SEO tricks that come and go. It’s up to you to never stop learning. We invite you to read our other articles to continue expanding your knowledge base.